Neha Keshan

Neha Keshan is a Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). She specializes in semantics, knowledge graphs, and AI applications with a focus on societal impact. Her research addresses challenges for marginalized STEM students and integrates interdisciplinary approaches to data science. She teaches foundational courses like 'Data Structures' and 'Computer Science 1,' while also developing research-driven curricula such as 'Introduction to Research' and remodeled 'Data and Society.'

Education: PhD in Computer Science (RPI, 2023) under Prof. James A. Hendler; Master’s in Computer Applications from the A.K. Choudhury School of Information Technology, University of Calcutta (with Global Education Exchange).

Research Interests: Neha’s work spans semantic technologies, knowledge graph applications in healthcare/materials science, and the ethical implications of data-driven systems. She emphasizes bridging gaps between academia and industry through initiatives like the KGC poster sessions. Recent projects include SCIVO (career-matching ontology) and NanoMine (nanocomposite materials data resource).

Awards: Multiple accolades include the Best Ph.D. Symposium Award (WebSci’21), Robert McNaughton Prize, and recognition for public service and leadership. She has also received the Overseas Endowment Travel Scholarship (2015).

Professional Contributions: Active in conference leadership roles (e.g., Sponsorship Chair for ISWC’25, Track Chair for KGC’22) and serves on committees like Rensselaer’s Computer Science Curriculum Committee. Member of IEEE and ACM.

Labs/Teams: Previously affiliated with Syracuse University’s Systems Security and Machine Learning Lab and SUNY Oswego’s Advanced Wireless Systems Research Center, focusing on stress detection via ECG data analysis.